Map reading is a crucial backcountry skill. Understanding the information contained in a topo map will help you to plan and execute your trips. New Zealand’s 1:50,000 scale topographic maps are the most detailed maps available for the backcountry. With a refined combination of colour, contour and symbology, these maps convert the three-dimensional world into […]
About the author
Mark Watson
Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.
Dirt bike trial on Tongariro Northern Circuit gets approval
The 2026 Wilderness Outdoor Photographer of the Year competition
Knockin’ on heaven’s door
The 2026 guide to sleeping mats
Walking through the valley of Hope
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